Biographies of five men who dedicated their lives to fighting for the independence of India are presented. Mohandas K. Gandhi, born in 1869, spent his life in non-violent resistance to the many injustices being perpetrated against the poor and needy of India. Born in 1876, lawyer Mohammad Ali Jinnah was close in ideas, hope, and spirit to Gandhi. He promoted self-government for India and Hindu-Muslim unity. Jawaharlal Nehru was born in 1889. He also was attracted to Gandhi's ideas and worked for Indian independence. Nehru was Prime Minister of India for nearly 17 years. Another great freedom fighter was Subhas Chandra Bose, born in 1897. Bose resigned from a coveted Indian civil service position he had earned and dedicated his life to fighting for home rule. Bal Gangadhar Tilak, born in 1856, was regarded by the British rulers of India as the "father of Indian unrest." He selflessly served India, and everyone looked to him for political inspiration. Vallabhbhai Patel, born in 1875, is called India's "Iron Man" because of his strength of character and his great contribution to India's independence. (RM)